In the halls of Crystal Prep, we see Shadow conversing with his harem, Sunlight Shimmer and the human Starlight Glimmer until he hears a voice call out to him as they all turn to find Juniper Montage in a CPA uniform.

Shadow Moonlight: ** And there goes my Thursday morning.

Juniper Montage: I can't thank you all enough for allowing me to enroll here.

Lemon Zest: It's no problem, dude. It was the least we could do since you managed to clean up the mall.

Sour Sweet: ** We'll all get along just fine. ** Just don't drive our boyfriend nuts ever again!

Juniper Montage: You have my word, Sour.

Shadow sighed and rolled his eyes as Indigo caught onto it.

Indigo Zap: ** Come on, Shad. She's trying to change herself, cut her some slack.

Shadow Moonlight: ** It's not that easy, Indie. Unlike Y/N and the rest of you, I don't forgive people right off the bat, they have to earn it.

Indigo Zap: ** You did once, Shad. You never held anything against Patriot when he picked on you, why can't you do the same for her?

Shadow Moonlight: ** Because I'd rather be stuck with a bully that landed me in a hospital than to go insane from a narcissist who has an ego the size of a solar system.

Indigo Zap: ** Can you at the very least give her credit for trying to change?

Shadow Moonlight: ** ** Fine. But only because you want me to, Indie.

She smiled and pecked his cheek.

Indigo Zap: ** Thanks, Shad.

Shadow Moonlight: ** Yeah, don't mention it.

Sunny Flare: So, are we just about ready for our yacht trip tomorrow? Packed all the essentials?

Shadow Moonlight: Not yet, sis. I still have to get the shark poison.

Sunny Flare: ** How many times do I have to say that Jaws was just a movie and that sharks aren't that malicious?

Shadow Moonlight: You never know. There could be a shark that just goes completely insane and starts attacking people at any moment. It's always important to come prepared for these situations.

Lemon Zest: Well, whatever helps you sleep at night, dude. So, you told us that Y/N's coming with us?

Shadow Moonlight: Yeah, him, his girls, and the owners of Camp Everfree.

Indigo Zap: Sweet! We're gonna have so much fun together! I can already tell!

Shadow Moonlight: ** Yeah, I'm sure. ** Why do I get the feeling that Indigo summoned our deaths?

Sunlight Shimmer: Something wrong, Shad?

Shadow Moonlight: I don't know. I'm just thinking that something bad might happen. You know how Y/N and his girls took their trip to Camp Everfree and had to deal with some magic situation? I'm afraid of that happening on our trip. Don't get me wrong, I wanted them to come with us but I don't want our trip to be ruined because someone gets ahold of magic and becomes another demented magical creature.

Sunlight Shimmer: Well, if that does happen, then I'm sure you and Y/N will take care of it. Then, we could just resume our trip.

Shadow Moonlight: I suppose, but still, I can't help but worry. ** I guess I'm not that different from Y/N.

Sunlight Shimmer: Trust me, Shad. The only time you should ever worry about anything is when something bad is most definitely going to happen. Meanwhile, you're mostly basing your anxiety off of expectation.

Shadow Moonlight: I know, I know. ** I'm starting to sound like Sunset, huh?

Sunlight Shimmer: ** Maybe a little. But cheer up Shad, I'm sure we'll still have a fun time regardless.

Shadow Moonlight: Let's all hope that you're correct.

Meanwhile, you, your harem, Timber, and Gloriosa were having lunch at a local diner.

Sunset Shimmer: So, I assume everyone's ready for the Spring Dance trip?

Most of the others voiced their agreements except for one person... you. You sat with a bit of a bug eyed look on your face as Rainbow nudged your shoulder.

Rainbow Dash: You doin' okay there, babe?

(Y/N): Huh? Oh, sure! I'm fine, Rainbow. I... just... have something on my mind is all. Hey, quick question, would any of you happen to have any last minute appointments to make that may or may not possibly cancel this little trip?

Timber Spruce: I don't think so. Why?

(Y/N): J-Just asking. Hey, I'm just spitballing here, but why don't we just take a moment to ask ourselves, "do I really wanna go on a trip over a large body of water?"

Applejack: Y/N, you're stallin'.

(Y/N): Stalling?! Hah! I'm not stalling! Why would I stall?! In fact, here's a laundry list of things I like more than stalling: Root beer, Coloring books, video games, bean burritos, first day of spring, second day of spring, third day of spring-

Sunset Shimmer: Ahem!

You looked and saw that everyone else was giving you a deadpan look. Sweat dripped down your forehead before you sighed in defeat.

(Y/N): Fine, I admit it. I still can't swim! I never took those lessons at the Canterlot Community Pool.

Rarity: Y/N love, you promised.

(Y/N): You don't understand, Rarity. They wanted to put me in the beginners class with all the little kids! I can't be swimming around with a bunch of five year olds! ** They can be so cruel when they sense weakness.

Timber Spruce: Well, it's better than being scared to death by a body of water.

(Y/N): ** That's somewhat true, I guess.

Fluttershy: I'm sure there's gonna be other activities besides swimming, Y/N.

(Y/N): There most likely is, Fluttershy. But, I'm assuming a large portion of it is gonna involve swimming such as scuba diving.

Sci-Twi: Don't you have some sort of spell that can alter the buoyancy in your body to make you float in water?

(Y/N): I'm afraid not.

Pinkie Pie: ** Hey, why don't we teach him how to swim?!

You froze.

(Y/N): U-Uh...what?

Gloriosa Daisy: That's... not a bad idea!

(Y/N): Uh... excuse me?

Rainbow Dash: We're gonna be spending a long time on the yacht anyways. Maybe we can dedicate some of it to teaching Y/N.

(Y/N): Um... don't I get a say in this?

Sunset Shimmer: Nope, because if you did, it'd probably be to cancel the trip which we are definitely not doing. Face it, buster. The decision has been made.

Everyone: Yeah!

(Y/N): ** I'm gonna drown.

Sci-Twi: Not with us there, you're not. Come on, Y/N. This is finally a chance to get over your fear.

(Y/N): Yeah, and then I'll be hearing the drowning theme from Sonic if I stay under for too long.

Rainbow Dash: Relax, dude. You're gonna be just fine. I'm a professional swimmer so you got nothing to worry about.

You looked to each of them as they all had supportive smiles. You sighed before looking back at them.

(Y/N): If you guys are so confident that I'll be okay, then... I'll trust you.

They all cheered after hearing your answer.

Applejack: Don't worry, sugarcube. With enough practice, you'll be swimming in no time.

Rainbow Dash: Yeah, babe. Just follow our lead and you'll be just fine.

You then remembered something.

(Y/N): Let's change the subject for now. Listen, I think this trip... would be the perfect opportunity to test out my theory of Shadow's pendant.

Sci-Twi: Y/N, that's not a good idea.

(Y/N): Look Sci-Twi, I don't want this as much as you all, but Shadow nearly leveled the mall when he fought Juniper with his pendant powers. I think he's getting more and more out of control the longer he has that thing on. Besides, you all agreed to help me do it, didn't you?

Gloriosa Daisy: Wait, what are you talking about?

(Y/N): You know that dark teal pendant that he wears around his neck, Glori?

Gloriosa Daisy: Yeah, why?

(Y/N): Well, that may be the reason why he's always so angsty and sarcastic at times. Let me ask you and Timber this. Do you remember way back when we were kids how he used to be this timid but nice little kid who got along with everyone?

Timber Spruce: Yeah...those were the days.

Gloriosa Daisy: Come to think of it, I do remember. He was so much nicer back then.

(Y/N): He was, but Sci-Twi told me that as soon as he got that pendant, he immediately changed.

Timber Spruce: You sure it's not just puberty?

(Y/N): I'm pretty sure puberty doesn't make you switch back and forth between being confident and cocky to timid and sweet just like that, Tim. There's something else going on and I believe it's got to do with his pendant. He said it was a gift given to him by Adagio. For all we know, she could have put some kind of enchantment on it that changes the personality of the user.

Rarity: I don't know, dear. All they really could do was turn people against each other. It'd make sense why he was like that towards you but why not to us?

Applejack: I'm with Rarity. Why would they make him hate you instead of all of us? We all played a part in their downfall.

(Y/N): Probably because we're childhood friends. Look, I care too much about Shadow to just sit by and let him become more and more angsty. He promised me that he'd change himself, but so far, he hasn't really done a single thing. So, I really need your guys' support for this. Tim, Glori, everyone here, please give me a hand with this. I just wanna know for sure.

All of them looked amongst each other while trying to decide whether to help you with this or not. Finally, Applejack was the first to speak.

Applejack: Well, you don't seem to be lyin', sugarcube, so that tells me that you truly believe that Shadow's pendant thingy is to blame for him actin' up.

Pinkie Pie: Do the Crystal Prep girls know about this, Y/N?

(Y/N): I told Moondancer about it and I'm hoping she's talked to the others as well. Though, she seemed to have agreed to do it.

Gloriosa Daisy: Are you sure the yacht is a good place to do it?

(Y/N): He'll be on a giant boat surrounded by miles and miles of ocean. He won't have anywhere else to go.

Gloriosa Daisy: ** Alright...

Just then, your phone rang as you pulled it out of your pocket to look at the caller id which revealed to be Shadow.

(Y/N): ** Speak of the devil... ** I better take this.

You answered the call.

(Y/N): Shad, what's up?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Hey, man. Have you and the others got your stuff ready for tomorrow?

(Y/N): Just about. What about you?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Just need to get a few more things and then we'll be good to go. Listen, I wanted to ask. Was it really a good idea to have Juniper enrolled at CPA?

(Y/N): Well, I figured that it'd be a decent opportunity for you two to make up now that she's changed herself.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): ** Alright but now that means she gets to go on the trip and the whole point of this trip, for me at least, was to get away from her.

(Y/N): I'm positive she won't ruin the trip for you, Shad. Not when you've got me there to lighten the mood.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): If that ends up being proved otherwise, I will never let you live it down.

(Y/N): Duly noted, Shad. Come on, ever since the Friendship Games, when have I let you down?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Hmmm, let me think. How about when you dragged Juniper into my school?

(Y/N): To be fair, I didn't drag her into it, I offered it to her and she accepted.

Shadow Moonlight: Even still, I'm now stuck with her more than ever because of you. I've been through enough torture, dude. I know I have been terrible at the Friendship Games but this is way too harsh.

(Y/N): Shadow, this isn't a punishment. You really need to stop being so uptight all the time and lighten up and what better way than to make up with the once egotistical girl that's trying to reform herself. She's trying her hardest and you aren't giving her a chance. Granted, you gave the Shadowbolt girls a chance and they let you down, but they still made up for it. So, just trust me on this one, dude.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): The Shadow Five were different. I grew to like them so I was willing to give them another chance but I've always hated Juniper so giving her another chance is like attempting to befriend Patriot.

(Y/N): ** ** This is exactly my point. The original Shadow would have been willing to give her a chance, but this Shadow isn't. ** Just give it some time, Shadow. Just lighten up when we go on this trip. It's meant to be a fun getaway for us. I doubt that Juniper would ruin the whole thing just by being there. ** That would most likely be me if my theory is wrong.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Fine... but if I hear so much as one mention of the word "Daring Do" and "acting" from her, I'm throwing her off the yacht.

(Y/N): ** Sure pal, sure you will.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Y/N, I swear to god if you don't stop stealing my character trait...

(Y/N): You can't put a trademark on a trait that existed long before your time, Shadow. That's like saying that the Mona Lisa is yours simply because you're a master painter. It doesn't work out that way.

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): First off, there are a lot more paintings that I'd rather claim than that one and second, sarcasm is my thing, Y/N. I was being sarcastic when I said I trademarked it.

(Y/N): Anywho, let's steer away from that, Shad. We'll meet up over by the yacht itself tomorrow. Sound good?

Shadow Moonlight (Over Phone): Yeah, yeah. See you there, man.

(Y/N): Later, bud.

You hung up and turned to the others.

(Y/N): Well, Shadow seems a little peeved at me for enrolling Juniper at CPA.

Timber Spruce: I don't blame him. She was pretty annoying.

(Y/N): But at least, you can give her credit for trying to change herself, right Tim?

Timber Spruce: I can. Although, if I were in his shoes, I'd most likely feel the same to be honest.

(Y/N): Geez, gang up on me much?

Gloriosa Daisy: Y/N, she was always bragging about herself to him and trust me, it gets really annoying after awhile. Shadow had to deal with that more than anyone so in his perspective, it's not really simple. I'm not saying we shouldn't forgive her, I'm just saying it won't be easy.

(Y/N): ** It never is. But we still need to try. It's the right thing to do.

You all then continued your hangout until it was time for you to leave and head home.

We see a large yacht casually cruising across the ocean surface. The camera zooms downward to see you and everyone else looking around at what the yacht had to offer.

(Y/N): I think this is the first time I've ever been on a yacht.

Sunset Shimmer: You and me both, Y/N.

You then looked over the side and down at the water below. Your pupils shrunk as your face became nervous as your vision zoomed in and out at the water. You quickly backed up and hit a wall before sliding down to the floor. You then started to hyperventilate.

(Y/N): ** Okay. ** Just calm down, Y/N. ** As long as you are on solid ground, you should be good.

Shadow came up to you.

Shadow Moonlight: You alright, man?

You glanced up at him with a nervous smile.

(Y/N): Y-Yeah, just... mentally preparing myself for the moment.

Shadow Moonlight: ** I told you that you didn't have to come if it was gonna freak you out.

(Y/N): L-Look, I'm sure I'll be fine. I just... need to get used to it.

You shakily stood back up and took a few deep breaths as it actually helped calm you down.

(Y/N): Okay... I think I'm good.

Shadow Moonlight: You think or are you sure you're good?

(Y/N): Is there really a difference?

Shadow Moonlight: There's a big difference. "You think" only implies that you're not entirely certain while the other means that you know indefinitely.

(Y/N): Oh, well, maybe, the latter option?

Shadow Moonlight: ** Why don't we head inside to our rooms and maybe lie down a bit? Maybe that'll help ease your paranoia.

(Y/N): Probably a good idea.

You and him walked inside and to your rooms. After some time had passed, you came out looking better than earlier.

Shadow Moonlight: Feeling better, yet?

(Y/N): A little. Thanks for that suggestion, Shad.

Shadow Moonlight: I knew that bed would calm you down. It's blankets are made with the softest material known to man.

(Y/N): Egyptian silk?

Shadow Moonlight: I wish. Probably not as soft as that but it's definitely in the top five. Hey, I heard your girlfriends along with Timber were going to teach you how to swim. Do you mind if I help too?

(Y/N): Not at all, man. Any help is appreciated.

You then looked down at his neck and noticed that he wasn't wearing his pendant.

(Y/N): ** He must have left it in his room. This might be my only chance to see if my theory is correct. ** Hey Shad, I'm gonna go back to my room for a second. I left something back there. I'll be back in a moment.

Shadow Moonlight: What'd you leave behind? I'll get it for you.

(Y/N): It's fine. I only left my sunscreen there. I'll go get it. You go ahead and go over to the pool with the others.

Shadow Moonlight: You sure?

(Y/N): Positive.

Shadow Moonlight: Alright, just don't get freaked out over the ocean again while you're in there.

You nodded before walking back inside and towards the hallway where your rooms were. You walked over to Shadow's door and began reaching out for it.

(Y/N): ** Sci-Twi gave me an idea with that little lock picking trick she did with her magic at the Daring Do set. I wonder if...

You reached your hand down to the lock as it glowed (F/C) and placed your palm upon. You focused your thoughts for a moment before the door's card swipe lock beeped green and unlocked itself.

(Y/N): ** Yes! Here we go!

???: Y/N?

You screamed in fright and did a karate stance and looked to wherever the voice came from. You sighed in relief upon seeing that they were Moondancer.

(Y/N): Oh, hey, Moony. You scared me back there. What are you doing here?

Moondancer: I was planning to model my new bikini for Shadow but then I saw you here at his door and curiosity got the better of me.

Her eyes then widened.

Moondancer: Wait... are you going to try and take his pendant?

(Y/N): ** Looks like I've been caught red handed.